Saldo means “to join” or “to weld,” and this brand is reportedly supplied by more than 100 vineyard sites. Rather than seeming like something cobbled together, this blend tastes quite thoughtfully composed. A plurality of 51% Petite Sirah is softened—but also brightened—by five other varieties, resulting in a wine that is big and bold but not overblown.
Weighing in at a stated 15.5% alcohol, but showing almost no alcohol-driven “heat,” this is quite robust but still easy to enjoy. It shows mostly briary black fruit notes, with a core of Zinfandel effectively augmented by 11% Petite Sirah, 4% Syrah, and 2% Carignan. Very promising as a partner for hearty winter stews or roasted lamb with Moroccan spices.
Bright cherry and pomegranate possess mocha overtones. Juicy and fresh, with supple amd inviting tannins. Notes of sweet tobacco and lightly oaked cinnamon-cherry are quite pleasing.
Juicy and concentrated, with suede-lined tannins, ripe blueberry, and spiced sandalwood. Notes of beef broth, licorice, and new leather demonstrate its complex nature.
Spiced mulberry, red cherries, and salted cranberries add layers on red tea and sweet tobacco. This wine upholds grainy tannins and a fine backbone.
There’s no doubt this red deserves special attention. First, it is made by Chief Santa Rita Winemaker Sebastian Labbe; second, it tastes like a wine three times its price. Bold, with a soothing, creamy, suave persona, it carpets the palate with mineral-rich soil, fennel-covered plum, dark roast coffee and cedar. Its opulence lingers, performing with a low abv of 13 percent.
A tapestry of complex notes featuring dark cherries and spied chocolate. This is a celebration of wine, a reflection of the richness we desire in life. Sun-kissed notes of figs and brandied plum are sensual, with a touch of clove on the finish.
This estate-grown, zero-dosage blanc de noirs is a compellingly stylish study in nerve and verve. The nose thrums with a complex amalgam of white cherry, cherry blossom, apricot, orange marmalade, ginger, and even faint coffee cake, while on the palate, high-toned acidity and a svelte body make for incredible tension as sensations of lemon and green almond segue into a long finish of citrus zest and lemongrass.